Correspondence.

for in a R . A . Chapter a companion has successively filled the chairs of the three Principals Avithout once performing the Avork in either , and the same thing has occurred iu the Mark Lodge . The brethren were , however , compelled to appoint them because they Avere the only candidates Avho had fulfilled tlie necessary condition of having presided over a Craft Lodge .

In clause 19 , page 65 of the Book of Constitutions , ( edition 1 S 63 , ) it is stated that " every deviation from the established mode of Avorking is highly improper and cannot be maintained . " Let me ask how the

" established mode ' is to be ascertained . For myself , I adopt that of the Emulation Lodge of Instruction , in London , which , I deem the best . Some prefer the form used in the east of London , which is different in many respects . A definite decision on the part of Grand Lodge , as to either of these , or auy other , is not only most desirablebut is imperatively demanded ,

, in order to carry out the law quoted , Avhich is otherwise a dead letter . The arrangement described as adopted in America appears to me the proper solution of the difficulty , for there competent inspectors are appointed Avho travel about , and make formal reports to Grand Lodge as to the condition of each Lodge

examined , where defects are found to exist , the formation of a Lodge of Instruction should be insisted upon under the direction of a competent instructor duly authorized as such . Lately finding a subordinate , but very important officer going Avrong , I ventured to assist , which I learnt was complained of . On

tbe next occasion , though requested by the W . M . to interfere , I declined to do so , and the result was that more serious mistakes were made , and some necessary links in the chain of the ceremony were omitted . To this brother an offer of priA'ate instruction had been made , of Avhich he had not availed himself . In some lodges a proper feeling exists , and it is understood that any one of subordinate rank , who

performs his duty Avell and qualifies himself to rise , shall do so , hut eveu where there is such an understanding , it seems to me most desirable , that at a meeting of the P . M's and officers of the lodge previous to the installation , the W . M . elect , should in the presence of them all announce his intended appointmentsthus giving each one an opportunity of

, defending himself in case it may be proposed to supersede him . In very many cases , however , the W . M . adopts no rule of the kind , but exercise his own irresponsible power , and thus I have knoAvn great injustice practiced by the promotion of a brother over the head of his superiors from motives of private

friendship , from Avhich there is at present no redress ; the result has been that those aggrieved have entirely withdravra from the Craft or have joined other lodges . When I first served as W . M ., in 1851 , one of the members refused to pay his subscription and

otherwise gave offence to the brethren . The matter having been formally brought before the lodge , it was determined to exclude him , and in consequence , acting on clause 21 , page C 5 of the Constitutions , the case was reported to the Provincial Grand Master , and the Grand Secretary . I understood that the object of such report was to prevent admission to any other lodge until after satisfaction had been giA'en ; if it be not BO , I can see no other benefit to be gained by it .

Correspondence.

But in this case I was informed several years ago that the rejected brother had been received as a member of another lodge , and thus the course taken Avas useless . Were the proper discipline maintained , the numerous instances of the removal of members for refusal to pay dues after repeated admonitions would be sent

up to Grand Secretary , which might , perhaps , check their frequency . Much of the above has been mentioned before in the " Freemasons' Magazine" by myself aud others in different forms , hut as great changes have taken place in the lodges by removals and extensions , ifc may be

new and suggestive to many now belonging to the Order . 1 hope your correspondents who are discussing such matters will not consider me as interfering with them , for my desire is rather to render them support . Tours fraternally , * P . M .

Masonic Sayings And Doings Abroad.

MASONIC SAYINGS AND DOINGS ABROAD .

A Balustre has been issued by the M . P . Sov . G . Commander of the Southern Jurisdiction , acknowledging , and in the most ample and satisfactory manner , correcting the error into which that Supreme-Grand Council had inadvertenly fallen , in supposing that the Supreme Council of Belgium had recognized the spurious body in Louisiana .

From the " Keystone" we learn that " a convention of the Grand Commanderies of the Masonic Order will be held in Baltimore in September next , and already extensive arrangements are being made for the event , which promises to be very extensive , and one which will attract to that city a large

number of strangers . The Supreme Commandery assembles but ouce in four years , and the Convention next September Avill be the first occasion of the kind oA'er convened in Baltimore . A procession will march through the principal streets , and it is expected that 12 , 000 Knights will be in line , consisting

of representatives from all parts of the United States , and from Canada , England , Scotland , and elsewhere . Pennsylvania has reported she will send a delegation of 1 , 500 . The Boston Commandery haA e , even afc this early date , chartered a steamer of the Boston and Baltimore line , for the conveyance of

its delegates . The celebration is to continue four days , and other entertainments will take place . When the Commandery last met in St . Louis , the merchants of that city contributed 20 , 000 dols ., and it is expected that Baltimore merchants will assist the Knights of that city in taking good care of their brethren . "